Downlights for Small Void

[georgedr]

Just moved into a 25 year old purpose built flat and want to add downlights (about 20). I understand that fire rated downlights are essential. Several people have recommended 240v mains system with GU10. The problem is that the void height appears to be a max of 100mm I have seen, after much searching, ultra compact lights with height 86mm but am concerned that it doesn't allow sufficient air space for circulation. Another suggested LED lights (cool) at about same height but very expensive at around £35 each but I assume not much space above is needed. Yet another idea is fire rated hoods but all are well over 100mm height and would need reducing but that would compromise their safety. The question is : can I really do downlights or are we stuck with ceiling lights?
Many thanks

 

[ban-all-sheds]

Probably stuck with ceiling lights.

Don't forget you'll need soundproofing as well as fire proofing.

But it's no bad thing. 20 lights? To replace how many?

 

[securespark]

20????

 

[Taylortwocities]

20 x 50 watts

You'll not need to switch the heating on then!

 

[bernardgreen]

20 x 50 watts

You'll not need to switch the heating on then!

Neither will the people in the flat above.

 

[ban-all-sheds]

Let's hope they like UFH....

 

[georgedr]

Thanks. They are for hall, living room, kitchen and bathroom - quite modest I thought. Could I use the 86mm LEDs in the void space as little heat problem, and I would only use them for and L shape hallway as it looks cluttered, so might be affordable for 5 at £35 each to replace 2 "normal" lights.

 

[ban-all-sheds]

LEDs are funny things regarding heat - they don't produce anything like as much as incandescent lamps, but they are extraordinarily intolerant of what they do produce, and it must be got rid of - hence the large heat sinks/cooling fins you see on many of them, particularly the higher output ones.

So pay scrupulous attention to what the makers say about clearances and ventilation bearing in mind that you'll need to surround them with soundproofing and firehoods.

Are you sure you can't find anything non-cluttered for less than £87.50 which won't require you to cut holes in the ceiling?

Also, have you considered the difficulties of running cables in the ceiling when you don't have access from above? Where do the joists run in relation to where the cables and lights would have to go?

 

[georgedr]

Many thanks Ban all Sheds, very useful info, which has cleared my mind.